Maria Brett from Little Constellation Jewellery. Image supplied.
Maria Brett is the founder and designer of Little Constellation Jewellery which is a handcrafted resin jewellery label based in Dunedin. She creates each beautiful piece herself and loves playing with light and shape to create unique pieces that are truly covetable. Little Constellation Jewellery has picked up a loyal following for Maria’s winsome designs and the brand recently released its third collection.
We caught up with Maria to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
GOLDEN HOUR is a bit of a nostalgia trip. There’s a real 60s/70s aesthetic, especially in the colour palette, which might be considered “Autumnal”, but I’m reclaiming the palette as “Summer evening”! It’s mostly inspired by visiting grandparents (my own as well as friend’s), it draws on shapes and colours used in chunky glass ashtrays, crystal glassware, Arcoroc crockery and that textured amber glass in Grandma’s divider doors.There are pieces based on an old chandelier we had when I was a child, we were so poor but we had this amazing chandelier and I was so proud of it. I just love the way the shapes capture light.
What made you become a designer?
Seeing Jean Paul Gaultier’s work in “The Fifth Element” when I was about 7.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the challenge of making something unusual and original.
Earrings by Little Constellation. Images by Kate Drennan.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
I’m a bit of a Jeckyll/Hyde, I’m not ashamed to say I spend my days “Mumming” in yoga pants, and then when I go out it could be OTT head-to-toe sequins. I love big/flashy accessories because they easily add interest to an outfit.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
Could be my thigh high royal blue velvet boots.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
Things that will stand the test of time.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
The closest thing would be that I always dress for comfort. But there shouldn’t be any rules around what you put on your body!
Earrings by Little Constellation.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Having my work feature in Mindfood Style and NZ Weddings magazines before the brand was 6 months old.
What can’t you live without?
I’d be pretty sad if garlic no longer existed… And sparkling wine.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Never say never!
Images supplied.